Stabilizing Morningside

Abstract

The Stabilizing Morningside plan aims to build upon the assets of the MorningSide neighborhood to strengthen its housing market and once again make it a neighborhood of choice. The MorningSide neighborhood is a 1.5-square mile community located on the east side of Detroit, Michigan. Once a stable neighborhood, MorningSide was affected by mortgage foreclosures and is now facing property tax foreclosures. Between 2000 and 2010, the neighborhood population decreased by 27 percent and owner occupancy fell from 65 percent to 60 percent of housing units. Furthermore, housing conditions have declined with most houses in need of renovations or repairs. And lastly, over 20 percent of all properties in the neighborhood are vacant lots.

This plan is the result of a collaborative effort between the University of Michigan Urban and Regional Planning Program, U-SNAP-BAC, the MorningSide neighborhood association, Detroit Future City, Habitat for Humanity Detroit, Michigan Community Resources and the Mayor’s Office. It provides tools to residents and local organizations as well as city, county and state officials. This plan identifies four goals, each with strategies for achieving the goal.